We may be compensated by LightStream through these links.
Let’s be real: buying a campervan is a big deal. Whether you’re shopping for a weekend warrior or a full-time tiny home on wheels, the price tags can be intimidating. The good news? You don’t have to front the cash all at once. Financing your van is not only possible—it might be the move that gets you on the road sooner than you think.
At Vanlife Trader, we’ve teamed up with LightStream to provide fast and easy financing for buyers with good-to-excellent credit. LightStream offers low rates and flexible terms with no fees and no restrictions on Loan to Value (LTV), vehicle age, model, or mileage. No collateral is required, and you can finance any van from any seller—individual or dealer—without dealing with liens or lienholder paperwork. You can even finance the customization and upfitting work on a van you already own. Apply in minutes for a loan from $5,000 to $100,000 with LightStream’s simple online application. Plus, use their monthly payment calculator and make it easy to find the best rate and terms for you.
Which LightStream Loan Type Applies to You?
Which loan is right for me?
Not all vans are created equal—and that goes for financing, too. Depending on your van’s setup and who you’re buying it from, your loan might fall under one of four loan purposes:
1. RV Loan
If the van you’re buying is RVIA-certified, you’re in luck—this qualifies as an RV in LightStream’s book, whether it’s sold by a dealer or private party. RV loans offer longer terms, for rigs priced above $25,000.
2. Used Auto Loan – Dealer
Buying a van from a dealership that’s not RVIA-certified? This still qualifies under LightStream’s Used Auto Loan from a Dealer loan purpose.
3. Used Auto Loan – Private Party
If you’re buying a converted van from an individual (a private party), and it’s not
RVIA-certified, then your loan would fall under the Private Party Auto Loan loan purpose. Rates here may differ slightly, but it’s still a great path to ownership.
4. Build-Out Loan (a total game-changer!)
This is big: If you’re buying a new, empty van or already own one, you can get a LightStream loan just for the build-out. That means you can take your shell to a builder, get a quote, and finance the conversion—even if the van itself is already paid for.
This loan is categorized under “Other” purposes by LightStream and opens the door for anyone dreaming of a custom build but worried about funding.
We get asked about this all the time, so we’re stoked to finally have a legit financing option to offer vanlifers planning their own build. Reach out if you’re unsure which category you fall into—we’re here to help.
How to Estimate Your Monthly Payments
LightStream makes it easy to preview what your monthly payments might look like. Just head to any of the loan pages above, scroll to “It’s easy to find your rate,” and plug in your loan amount. You’ll see a breakdown of estimated monthly payments and rates, depending on your credit and loan term.
These sample rates are based on excellent credit—but you’ll also see the full range of potential APRs below the calculator.
Why We Recommend LightStream
• No fees — No origination, prepayment, or late fees
• Unsecured loans — No need to put up your van or other assets as collateral
• Fast funding — In many cases, approved loans can fund as soon as the same day (conditions apply)
• Vanlife-friendly — Whether you’re buying from a custom builder or a solo DIYer, LightStream has options
Advertiser Disclosure: We may be compensated by LightStream through the links on this page.
How to Apply
You can check rates and start the application process directly through the links above.
If you’re still comparing rigs, you can also create an account on Vanlife Trader and favorite the vans you love while you line up your financing.
All loans are subject to credit approval by LightStream.
© 2026 Truist Financial Corporation. TRUIST, LightStream, and the LightStream logos are service marks of Truist Financial Corporation. All rights reserved. All other trademarks are the property of their respective owners. Lending services provided by Truist
We may be compensated by LightStream through these links.
